On April 27, 2013, CBS Studio Center will host the Children’s Tumor Foundation’s first West Coast Benefit. This year’s event is themed, “Lights, Camera, Action!, Shining a Spotlight on NF” and will take place in Studio City, CA from 6-10 p.m.
The Children’s Tumor Foundation is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to finding effective treatments for neurofibromatosis (NF). NF causes tumors to grow on nerves throughout the body and can lead to blindness, bone abnormalities, cancer, deafness, disfigurement, learning disabilities, and excruciating and disabling pain. NF affects one in every 3,000 people, more than cystic fibrosis, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, and Huntington’s disease combined.
Blake Robinson, a vibrant 12-year-old boy who loves to cook, paint, and play soccer, is one of the millions worldwide who live with NF. Blake’s quick smile and positive attitude belie the serious medical issues that he has endured throughout his life. He has an optic glioma brain tumor, has had six brain surgeries, and was treated with chemotherapy for over a year. In addition, he was recently diagnosed with seizure activity, migraines, and hearing loss in one ear.
“As the parent of a child with NF, I am honored to work with such a wonderful organization and attend this event,” said Kim Robinson, Blake’s mother. “I believe the research funded by the Children’s Tumor Foundation will one day find a cure for neurofibromatosis. It gives hope to the millions of children and adults around the world who suffer from this debilitating disorder.”
Dondre Whitfield, veteran television actor and three-time Daytime Emmy Award nominee, will perform Master of Ceremony duties for CTF’s West Coast Benefit.
“Like most people, unfortunately, I knew nothing about neurofibromatosis, not even how to spell it, but I have quickly learned a lot in a very personal and touching way,” said Whitfield. “While picking up my daughter from school I was introduced to a special young man with the most engaging smile, Blake Robinson. Through his youthful, spikey locks of hair, I could see healed but prominent scar tracks on the top of his head. Just as I was about to ask what had happened, Blake’s mother told me about his battle with neurofibromatosis and his six brain surgeries. She then asked if I would help raise funds for NF research by hosting the inaugural Children’s Tumor Foundation West Coast Benefit. I told her it would be an honor.”
For more information or to purchase tickets to the Children’s Tumor Foundation’s West Coast Benefit, please visit www.ctf.org/westcoast.
